Formal vs Informal Korean

Korean has different speech levels depending on the relationship between people.

The two most common styles are:

In many languages:

People speak the same way to everyone.

In Korean:

Speech changes depending on:

Formal Korean shows:

Examples:

Hello.

Thank you.

Sorry.

Where is it?

Informal Korean is used with:

Examples:

Hi.

Thanks.

Sorry.

Where is it?

Because relationships matter.

Speech helps show:

👔 Office

↓

Usually formal

👨‍🏫 Teacher

↓

Formal

👴 Elderly person

↓

Formal

👫 Close friend

↓

Often informal

Many foreigners learn:

Hi

Then use it everywhere.

This may sound too casual.

Many foreigners learn simple Korean expressions first.

However, using them in the wrong situation can sound awkward.

Examples:

When unsure:

Use formal Korean.

This is usually the safest choice.

Yes.

Most Koreans understand that foreigners are learning.

People usually appreciate the effort.

Usually:

After becoming friends.

Sometimes people ask:

Can we speak informally?

This often means:

Many companies use:

Formal Korean

Even among coworkers.

Families usually use:

Many languages:

One main speaking style.

Korean:

Multiple speech levels.

This is one of the most unique parts of Korean.

Meeting a stranger

↓

↓

Safe and polite

Meeting a close friend

↓

↓

Natural conversation